Lavrov asserts Russia will protect Arctic interests amid NATO exercises

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russia will defend its Arctic interests through diplomatic and military means. He expressed concern over increased NATO military exercises in the region, which he linked to potential crises. Lavrov's comments follow a new U.S. Pentagon strategy highlighting intensified Russian activity in the Arctic. The strategy noted Russia's reopening of Soviet-era military sites and growing cooperation with China on resources and shipping routes. In response, Russia's Foreign Ministry accused the U.S. of escalating tensions and rejected claims that its cooperation with China could destabilize the region.